Contemporary design with ancient roots.

Heritage has always defined the 5-star Bab Al Shams resort, but its nine-month renovation in 2022 sought to add a contemporary flair while still honouring the region’s Bedouin history. The design narrative invites guests to step back in time to the life of a 'lost princess and her palace of treasures.' Every corner reveals curated furniture and décor, each piece brimming with character and symbolism.

It was only fitting that the vegetation throughout the space echoed the same brief, rich with history and character. Olive trees were the natural choice; with an average lifespan of 500 years, these beautiful trees serve as living windows into the past.

A total of 23 olive trees were needed to create a cohesive ambiance throughout the resort, including the lobby, spa, four restaurants, and three lounges. However, this particular species of tree requires ample sunlight to thrive, a challenge given Bab Al Shams' traditional Middle Eastern architecture, which features small windows and maximises shade.

To achieve the desired aesthetic without environmental restrictions or maintenance, TreeLocate Foliages was chosen to handcraft the trees and custom planters. We used natural, kiln-dried olive trunks ranging from 100 to 200 years old, paired with our ultra-realistic, inherently fire-retardant FireSilx olive foliage, to create incredibly lifelike replicas that are still steeped in character.

The largest olive tree, standing 3 meters tall with a 2.2-meter canopy, became a focal point in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired signature restaurant, Zala.

With over 25 years of experience in crafting bespoke trees, we’re able to offer expert consultancy right from the design stage. In fact, our team visited the Bab Al Shams resort multiple times to meticulously measure the space and assess lighting setups. This allowed us to provide precise recommendations on size, shape, and placement of the trees to achieve the best possible look.

After receiving client approval, we began crafting the trees in our manufacturing facility, conveniently located just 45 km from the resort. Clients are encouraged to make regular visits during the build process, enabling real-time adjustments. This proactive approach minimides the need for extensive changes later on, effectively reducing overall build time.

After final sign-off, the trees are disassembled, transported, and expertly reassembled on-site by our own team, ensuring a flawless installation every time.

Photography by Natalee Cocks